News
The Rail Heritage Trust of New Zealand is set to receive a major funding increase to support its efforts in preserving the country’s rail history. Rail Minister Winston Peters announced today that KiwiRail will increase its annual contribution to the Trust from $125,000 to $500,000. The funding will go towards restoring historic railway buildings and structures around the country.
“This is about our national industrial heritage and the volunteer power and engineering pride of railway communities,” Mr Peters said.
He added that communities that understand the importance of their past are not to be underestimated. The funding will help enable the public to enjoy steam locomotives, carriages, and other heritage assets, while also allowing for small infrastructure improvements that benefit communities.
The Trust has already restored several railway buildings, including the well-known Cass railway station, famously depicted in a painting by Rita Angus. A list of other valued sites is also being considered for future work, all supported by community volunteers and funding.
One major project now set to move forward is the restoration of the historic Mataura Railway Station. Discussions are currently underway to transfer ownership of the station from KiwiRail to the Rail Heritage Trust. The extra funding will unlock long-awaited work on the building, with local volunteers and donors playing a key role.
Mataura Community Board Chair Nicky Coats welcomed the news. “It’s fantastic for the Mataura community to see this historic building on our main street being brought back to its former glory, restoring and preserving a piece of our local history for future generations.”
Long-time advocates Neville Phillips and Laurel Turnbull expressed relief that progress is finally being made. “We’re all happy that something is being done at last,” said Turnbull.
Gore District Mayor Ben Bell echoed those views. “It’s great to see something finally happening with the railway station. This historic building has been deteriorating in the centre of our town, becoming an eyesore for anyone living or passing through Mataura.”
He praised the community’s determination. “We have been advocating strongly for action on this site for years, working with local groups and putting pressure on KiwiRail to find a solution, so I am thankful for the Minister’s announcement today.”
The station, designed in 1921 by celebrated architect George Troup, reflects a key era in New Zealand’s railway heritage. The restoration is expected to bring a renewed sense of pride and identity to the Mataura community.